Two victims of childhood clergy sexual abuse and belong to a support group called SNAP (the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests), including a Missouri man who is the group’s long time director

WHY

A support group for victims of clergy sexual abuse is calling on the Altoona-Johnstown Catholic bishop to post the names of all credibly accused priests within his diocese on his website, in his diocesan newspaper, and in parish bulletins.

SNAP is pushing Bishop Matt Bartchak to take what they say is “one of the simplest, quickest and cheapest ways to keep kids safe.”

“It is a minimal step that helps parents, parishioners and the public know who and where these predators are, so that kids can be kept away from them,” said David Clohessy, SNAP Director.

In 2002, Tucson and Baltimore became the first US dioceses to disclose predators’ names. More recently, the Archdiocese of Philadelphia has created a database on its website which includes priests with credible child sex abuse accusation against them. (A full list of all the dioceses that have disclosed names is available here: http://www.bishop-accountability.org/AtAGlance/lists.htm)

SNAP is also urging Bishop Bartchak to disclose all information he has regarding a recently sued predator priest and to take steps to warn his flock about him.

“Since more victims have already come forward, it is likely that there are still others who are afraid to speak up,” said Clohessy. “Bishop Bartchak has a duty to find these people, to help them find their voice and help them heal.”

Fr. Koharchik was ordained in 1974 and has worked at two Johnstown parishes (St. Clement’s from 1974-99 and 1980-84 and St. Casimir’s from 1987-95). He twice worked at St. Joseph’s parish in Portage (1984-86 and 1995-1999). And he worked in four other central PA towns: Bellefontane (St. John’s the Evangelist 1986-87), Shade Gap (St. Mary’s, 1999-2006), Huntington (a prison chaplain, 1999-2006) and, most recently, in Mount Union (St. Catherine of Siena, 2006-2012). His picture and detailed work history is available here: http://www.bishopaccountability.org/assign/Koharchik_George_D.htm

SNAP wants anyone in the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown who may have information about Fr. Koharchik or any other predator to immediately come forward and make a report to police.

“Silence is a predator’s best weapon,” said Clohessy.

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